Proposed by: Alia Khan
Seconded by: Nafisa Anjum Hussain
What do you want?
We request that QMSU lobby QMUL schools to cease purchasing materials and equipment used for teaching and training from:
• Companies operating or franchising in conflict zones.
• Companies operating or franchising in countries accused of human rights violations, war crimes, or crimes against humanity.
• Companies that directly or indirectly invest in or profit from fossil fuels and/or armaments.
Furthermore, we request full transparency regarding the suppliers and companies from which materials and equipment used for teaching and training are purchased.
Why do you want it?
QMSU represents all University students, which are the main stakeholders of QMUL. Therefore, QMSU should represent the wishes of students in requesting the university to consider the ethical and sustainability issues with the equipment used for the training of students, purchased through students’ tuition fees. Particularly when the equipment purchased has been identified as having ties with violations of human rights or negative environmental impacts, students feel uncomfortable and unease to use and indirectly pay for such materials.
In addition, QMUL statements regarding the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) states a worldleading, research-intensive institution, Queen Mary recognises its responsibility to drive action in sustainability. Therefore, QMUL is supposedly committed to upholding ethical standards and human rights in all its operations.
Companies working in conflict zone areas may contribute to environmental destruction and human rights abuses. QMUL has the choice of making purchasing decisions that can uphold the sustainable and ethical standards set by the SDGs. It is important for the university to seek alternative suppliers that promote peace, environmental sustainability and human rights.
QMSU recognises the SDGs and states in its environmental policy that it takes into account the SDGs and it aims to lobby the university to continually improve their practices, including being more ambitious in their Environmental Sustainability Action Plan 2020-23. We believe our motion aims for that.
What impact will this have?
The motion aligns with QMSU's charitable objectives by advocating for ethical and sustainable procurement practices at QMUL. It supports student welfare by addressing concerns about uncomfortable ties with 2 companies involved in human rights violations and environmental harm. The motion encourages student representation, promotes inclusivity, and aligns with QMSU’s commitment to sustainability and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. It also enhances students' pride in their institution by ensuring that materials used in education reflect ethical values, aligning with QMSU’s mission to foster a positive and inclusive academic environment.